CRD regional parks are a shared treasure, welcoming over five million visitors every year. Many visitors bring their furry friends along to hike, stroll and enjoy nature and so practicing good “petiquette” ensures that parks remain safe and enjoyable for everyone – people, pets, wildlife, and the environment.
That's where the CRD’s annual PAWS in Parks public awareness campaign, kicking off this month, comes in. A yearly reminder of a year-round practice we should all follow. Good pet etiquette; as described by the PAWS acronym.
Here are four simple PAWS tips to follow every time you visit:
- Protect nature: Stay on designated trails and keep your dog away from wildlife and sensitive habitats. This helps protect ecosystems and prevents harmful disturbances.
- Always respect others: Not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Give fellow visitors space and keep interactions positive for all.
- Watch your dog: Keep your dog under control, in sight, and on a leash where required. This prevents accidents and keeps wildlife safe.
- Scoop the poop: Pick up after your dog and dispose of waste in the trash. Abandoned bags can harm wildlife and spoil the park experience for others.
Keep an eye out for plenty of PAWS content on the CRD’s social media channels, an ear out for fun PSAs on local radio stations and podcasts, and for CRD Regional Parks Rangers and Park Naturalists who will be popping-up in parks providing people with information, trivia, and free dog swag while they share more about the importance of #petiquette with the public.
These small actions make a big difference in preserving the beauty and safety of our parks. By following PAWS, you help protect nature, respect people, and keep parks welcoming for all.
Want more resources? Download the PAWS in Parks brochure and learn more at www.crd.ca/petsinparks
